G.N.A.S. Classification Scheme

The Grand National Archery Society in the U.K. runs a classification scheme,
allowing tournament organisers to provide class prizes for archers of similar
achievement levels.

1st, 2nd, and 3rd Class

To achieve 1st, 2nd or 3rd class, archers are required to shoot three
scores over the designated score levels. The scores can be
shot in competition, or on official club target days. The score levels for
1st, 2nd and 3rd class are:

The Bowman classification was introduced in 1995 to reduce the gap between 1st
Class and Master Bowman. Bowman classification requires three scores of the
designated level in county level competition. Bowman is intended to include
the top 15% of U.K. archers.

Master Bowman is intended to include about the top 4% of competitive archers
(4% for men, 4.5% for women).

When I first achieved MB in 1991, the requirements were for three scores of
1153 Fita or more. I have maintained at least MB status every year since then
except 1994, which I took most of the year off archery. The men's score
requirements for MB were increased to three scores of 1178 or more in 1992,
and then a year later to the current level of three scores of 1191 or more.

The Grand Master Bowman classification is intended to include about the top
1% of U.K. competitive archers (1% for men, 1.5% for women).

I first achieved GMB score levels in 1991, when the requirement was for
three scores of 1223 Fita or more, but unfortunately one of my scores was at a
non-record status event and so didn't count. The following year the
requirement was increased to three scores of 1243 or above, and then a year
later increased to the current men's level of three scores of 1259 or above,
two of which must be in record status Fitas, and the other at a record status
Fita or York. I finally achieved GMB in 1995.